🎣 Newport Anglers Take Over the Top 10 at the Kayak Bassmaster Classic
Legendary Lake Fork delivered a battle for the ages at the 2025 Kayak Bassmaster Classic National Championship. After Day 1 was canceled due to dangerous winds, anglers had just one day to prove themselves—and Newport-powered competitors made every second count.
When the dust settled, Newport anglers dominated the top 10, securing their spot on the iconic Bassmaster Classic stage and earning a golden ticket to next year’s Newport Bassmaster Kayak Classic—the most coveted tournament in kayak fishing.
The NK300 and NK180PRO were the ultimate keys to success, helping anglers cover more water efficiently and land monster bass. Dugout Bait & Tackle team members Ewing Minor, Bennett Nall, and Garrett Wade led the charge, showcasing the power and reliability of Newport motors.
🏆 Ewing Minor’s Strategic Success
Ewing Minor, a veteran on the competitive kayak fishing scene, credited his NK300's quiet performance for his ability to ease through timber without spooking fish.
“The motor is so quiet I was able to slowly ease around through the timber and locate those fish I was targeting with forward-facing sonar without spooking them.”
His methodical approach led to landing a behemoth 24.5" Texas bass—"shaped like a square."
💪 Bennett Nall’s Endurance and Efficiency
For Bennett Nall, who secured a third-place finish, the NK300 allowed him to conserve energy and stay sharp during the grueling 11-hour tournament.
“Towards the end of the day, if I were pedaling the whole way, there's no way I would have been able to make the decisions I made just from being exhausted.”
The ability to cover extensive water efficiently was pivotal to his strategy.
🔥 Garrett Wade’s Tactical Advantage
Garrett Wade highlighted the NK300’s role in his success, sharing how his foot-controlled steering system allowed him to stand and fish while maneuvering.
“Had I not been standing using that motor, I would have just passed right by them and had no idea they were there.”
His ability to adapt quickly and spot bass cruising the shallows proved essential.
🤝 The Power of Partnership
Dugout Bait & Tackle, one of Newport’s top dealers, played a key role in equipping these elite anglers with the gear needed to succeed. Their partnership with Newport underscores a commitment to pushing the boundaries of kayak fishing.
🎉 Congratulations to all the Newport-powered anglers who showcased their skill and dedication at Lake Fork! The future is bright for these competitors as they prepare for the Newport Bassmaster Kayak Classic in 2026. Stay tuned for more updates from Newport’s unstoppable community of anglers!
1 comment
Awesome to see these anglers show their skills. Newport was an awesome sponsored, enjoyed visiting the booth a few times at the Classic Expo and getting questions answered about my new NK180Pro coming soon to my Bonafide P127 this coming week! I expect after meeting the reps there that Newport support will be as great as my support from my local dealer MidSouth Floats.